Syrian Expats Living in UAE

Syrians in the UAE have played a vital role in the demographics of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Many Syrians have moved to the UAE in search of economic opportunities. However, they have cultural ties with the UAE, which makes them a significant contributor to the UAE’s multicultural fabric. The Syrian population in the UAE is over 242,000. They are both, Sunni Muslims and Christians. Moreover, the UAE is also known to be one of the safest countries not only in terms of safety for women but also for every resident, regardless of their culture and religion. Consequently, the crime rate is very low. Besides the civil law and order situation, Syrians see positive job prospects, especially when there is no income tax.

A large number of Syrians have been living in UAE, and many of them have been living in the country since the beginning of UAE. UAE came in to being in 1976. They are famous in media, fashion industry, real estate sector, engineering as well as IT industries. Syrian restaurants, as Syrian cuisine is quite famous to be the richest kitchen in UAE.

Syrian expats have lots of options to grow their careers. They are hired in various UAE industries, such as construction, tourism, entrepreneurship, and healthcare. You will come across Syrians from all walks of life in the UAE. Nevertheless, they are happy to be labourers, pharmacists, businesspersons, or even managers of customer relations.

The Syrian expats have cultural similarities with the UAE; therefore, relocation is not a problem. However, adjusting to a new country is always challenging as expats have lots of questions going on in their minds. These challenges related to their residency in the UAE, to the living cost and sometimes career growth:

• Visa and Residency Rules

The UAE has strict visa policies for expats. Not only Syrians but also expats from other countries need to have a secure job in the UAE to live legally in the UAE. None of the expats can have permanent residency; however, they can obtain long-term visas.

• High Living Standard

The UAE has become one of the global leaders in the business environment. Emirates, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have expensive living costs. Transportation and education expenses are skyrocketing. Therefore, Syrians face a big challenge maintaining their jobs to afford a good lifestyle in the UAE.

• Cultural Adaptation

Every expat becomes homesick in the UAE. It is the cultural shock that they experience. Although Syrians may have some similarities with UAE culture, they might still miss their home, especially when their families are not with them. However, there is a support system for Syrian expats at the community level.

The Syrian community in the UAE is a cornerstone for its people. The support they receive from their other brothers and sisters in the UAE ensures their safety. However, these Syrian ex-pats are benefitted in various ways:

• Network Opportunities

The new Syrian expats engage with other Syrian community members and may get a good business opportunity or mentorship. It is viable for them to interact with a wider group and search for the best business and job opportunities, as well as do social activities together.

• Cultural and Social Organizations

The Syrian cultural organizations in the UAE ensure that Syrians are tied to their roots. They would enhance cultural heritage in the UAE by doing community engagements and cultural festivals, allowing Syrians to collaborate and socialize with a bigger circle.

• Educational Support

Education might be expensive in the UAE, especially when an international curriculum is taught. Based on their academic reports, Syrian students may get financial scholarships. Those scholarships allow Syrian students to continue their education as best they can.

The UAE has a diverse population. Its vibrant lifestyle with amazing job opportunities makes expatriates stay there forever. Syrians living in the UAE admire the country for its safety and economic growth. In the coming years, the visa rules might change, and Syrians can better understand their residency in the UAE. Meanwhile, the countries are overwhelmed with their economic ties.

Hiring a lawyer in the UAE is the best decision that one can make, especially if they are unaware of the country’s rules and regulations. Several legal services are offered in all the emirates. Usually, expats need the services of an immigration lawyer to ensure their safe stay in the UAE. Finding an immigration lawyer can be tricky, but if you interview them, you can have a better insight into their services.